CN106037779A - Determination of imaging initialization time point by using contrast agent - Google Patents

Determination of imaging initialization time point by using contrast agent Download PDF

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CN106037779A
CN106037779A CN201610210525.7A CN201610210525A CN106037779A CN 106037779 A CN106037779 A CN 106037779A CN 201610210525 A CN201610210525 A CN 201610210525A CN 106037779 A CN106037779 A CN 106037779A
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imaging
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CN106037779B (en
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J·G·科尔波拉尔
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Siemens AG
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Abstract

An initial time point (tCT) method for imaging (CT ROI) imaging (S) of a region of interest for automatically determining the object to be checked (P) is described. According to the method (200400), select the object to be checked (P) sections (BT S) for subsequent bolus tracking (BTn), which can be observed towards the region of interest (ROI) flow of fluid flow. In addition, a plurality of bolus tracking images (BTn) of the selected slices (BT S) were taken. Further, assigned to the selected section based on the (BT S) of the plurality of bolus tracking image (BTn) for each image point (XI) of the intensity value (U (Xi, TN)) to determine the time density curve (ZDKi). And, according to the time density curve (ZDKi) of the time density curve (XI) assigned to the respective image points (XI), the respective image points are divided into groups (Gk, CLT). Finally, the intensity values (Xi, TN) of one of the groups assigned to the group (Gk CLT) are determined over a predetermined threshold (SW) of the time. a region of interest for the implementation is also described (ROI) imaging method (200400 Furthermore, an initial time point determination device (59) is described. A computer tomography system (1) is also described.

Description

Contrast agent is used to determine the initialization time point of imaging
Technical field
The present invention relates to the imaging of a kind of area-of-interest for automatically determining object to be checked The method of initialization time point (initialization time point).Further, originally A kind of method that invention relates to imaging for implementing area-of-interest.And, the present invention relates to And one initialization time point determines equipment.Finally, the present invention relates to a kind of imaging medical treatment set Standby.
Background technology
Modern formation method is often used in generation, and to can be used to visualize (visualize) to be checked Look into two dimension or the 3 d image data of imaging object, and be additionally additionally operable to apply further.
Formation method is often based on the acquisition of X-ray, wherein, generates so-called projection measurement Data.Such as, with the help of computed tomography systems (CT system), projection is obtained Measurement data.In CT system, typically, the x-ray source that is arranged on stand and with The combination of its X-ray detector positioned opposite (is being not intended to around object the most to be checked In the case of general, hereinafter referred to as patient) measuring chamber that is positioned rotates.This In the case of, center of rotation (being also known as " isocenter point ") overlaps with so-called system axle z. During the process once rotated above, use the x-ray bombardment patient from x-ray source, Wherein, with the help of relative X-ray detector, projection measurements or X-ray are obtained Data for projection.
X-ray detector for CT imaging is generally of in most of the cases with rule Multiple detector units that the form of pel array is arranged.Each inspection in these detector units Surveying unit and generate detection signal for the X-ray being incident in detector unit, described detection is believed Number special time for the intensity of X-ray and spectral distribution be analyzed to obtain about The conclusion of object to be checked and generate projection measurements.
Other imaging technique is based on nuclear magnetic resonance.During generating magnetic resonance image (MRI), to be checked Look into health be exposed to relatively high main field (such as, 1.5 teslas, 3 teslas or Even 7 teslas or higher in newer highfield system).Then, suitable sky Line equipment launch radio-frequency (RF) excited, this radio-frequency (RF) excited make by magnetic field this radio-frequency field encourage with The nuclear spin of the specific atoms of resonance overturns specific flip angle relative to the magnetic field line of main field Degree.Then, suitable antenna equipment that can also be identical with transmission antenna equipment is used to detect spoke Penetrate the radiofrequency signal (so-called magnetic resonance signal) in the relaxation of nuclear spin.With such The initial data that mode obtains is ultimately used to rebuild required view data.For space encoding, Corresponding defined magnetic field gradient is in transmission and reads or overlaps during reception radiofrequency signal On main field.
Described formation method is not only suitable for the imaging of anatomical structure and reproduces.It addition, by means of Formation method as described above may determine that function or the function of kinetic measurement variable to it Imaging performs work more and more, the most such as, measures the blood flow rate in blood vessel.
Summary of the invention
Also have in patient anatomies in visualization function relation, so-called contrast agent (contrast Medium) for medicinal imaging (medicinal imaging).But, make can start Shadow agent support imaging of medical before, it is necessary to ensure that inject contrast medium in the patient it After, contrast agent also is located in the area-of-interest of patient body.For visualizing internal radiography A kind of probability of the distribution of agent includes performing so-called group performed before actual imaging Note follows the tracks of (bolus-tracking) scanning (being called for short BT scanning).Such BT scans The CT image of the time correlation that resolution is low can be needed, obtain interested with this BT scanning The density-time curve (time-density curve) of the subregion in region.It is commonly used for Such subregion of BT scanning includes cutting into slices (slice), and this section is embodied as and z side Orthogonal to (direction of the system axle of imaging system), and contemplated including.Specifically, Obtain with BT scanning in the subregion of the area-of-interest that pad value is typically located as tremulous pulse Time and the function in space.If the contrast agent injected now flows through observed tremulous pulse, Then pad value dramatically increases.The predetermined threshold value of pad value is (such as, if more than 150 Hounsfield units (HU)), then this can be construed as to imply that contrast agent It is present in area-of-interest and starts the actual inspection of image with enough concentration.Generally Can be with the position of the subregion of manual correction BT scanography and size.
But, if clearly marked in the summarized images that can previously compile of anatomical structure Know (seeing Fig. 1), the most only manually adjust and locator region is effective.But, as Decisive and resolute structure qualitatively is the least and is difficult to differentiate between (the most such as, in neck area Take hemophoric tremulous pulse in the case of), then be uniquely based on the mark of this summarized images very Difficulty.But, in this case, it is still necessary to limit the subregion for BT method. Then subregion is usually located at patient-external (it is to say, " in atmosphere ") and contrary, logical Cross directly observing via corresponding imaging to monitor the distribution of contrast agent of patient.If operation The impression of person is that contrast agent is present in area-of-interest with enough concentration, the most manually starts Actual imaging.
Such program needs user to have experience and it addition, is not the most accurate. Contrast agent is positioned at patient to be used in by time setting too late that be commonly used for starting imaging Internal total time is extended.But, in principle, owing to contrast agent can have for human body Pressure, may stop the shortest time in vivo so attempting to realize contrast agent.Start into too early As the deterioration of picture quality can be caused.In the case of the most unsuitable, even must repeat into Picture and use contrast agent patient being had to additonal pressure.
Therefore, it is an object of the invention to combine contrast agent imaging exploitation a kind of for not to behaviour The part of work person determines the more smart of the initialization time point of imaging in the case of carrying out direct intervention Really and more effective way.
This purpose is by the sense for automatically determining object to be checked according to claim 1 The imaging in interest region initialization time point method, by use according to claim 12 In implement area-of-interest imaging method, by according to claim 13 initialize time Between point determine equipment and realized by imaging armarium according to claim 14.
Imaging at the area-of-interest for automatically determining object to be checked according to the present invention Initialization time point method in the case of, select section or be in cutting of object to be checked Plane in sheet is for wherein it is observed that fluid or fluid (including such as, contrast agent) Flow to the Bolus chase image subsequently of area-of-interest.This plane can such as with wait to describe Region forms cut set (cut-set) together.At topogram (topogram) With the help of perform the selection of section or the wherein plane that Bolus chase occurs subsequently.Then, Multiple Bolus chase images of the section selected by shooting.Selected by Bolus chase acquisition The intensity level (being pad value in the case of CT scan) of section.
Time point subsequently repeat this imaging can produce each picture point in section time m- Density curve.Hereinafter, term picture point includes three-dimensional voxel and two-dimensional pixel.Therefore, Under this background, picture point xiIt is understood to be finger small volume units or three-dimensional grid In the mesh point being associated.Alternately, two during picture point can also is that slice plane Dimension mesh point.Therefore, divide based on during multiple Bolus chase images of selected section The intensity level of each picture point in dispensing section is m-close when determining for each single image point Write music line.Density-time curve should be understood that the intensity of the picture point of selected section Time course (temporal course).Each picture point is according to distributing to each picture point The similarity of density-time curve be divided into groups of picture point.Within this context, art Language group represents outside the total quantity of the picture point of section acquired during being formed at BT imaging The subset of picture point.In this case, each picture point should clearly be assigned to one Group, i.e. subset or the picture point of distributing to these groups are formed without any cut set.Based on time m- The time course of density curve performs to divide in groups.Therefore, the scanning of at least two BT is necessary can For making such division be able to carry out.Preferably, in study or self-organizing iterative method With the help of perform this division.The most such as, after each additional BT scanning, perform Each picture point is newly divided in groups.Finally, determine that the intensity level distributing to group reaches or very To the time exceeding predetermined threshold value.
In the case of with CT system imaging, when Iodine contrast medium arrives, determine that threshold value is Through being exceeded, simultaneously such as in the case of with MRI system imaging, it may be determined that certain threshold When value is brought down below this threshold value.As a rule, intensity level is relative to the time behavior of threshold value Depend on imaging type and the contrast agent used.Each group several picture point allocated, They the most each distribute density-time curve.The functional value of these density-time curve can be used Determine density-time curve or the even time-density relation representing this group.Simplest In the case of, it is bent that time-density relation includes distributing to m-density during this group all simply Line.Alternately, time-density relation can also be confirmed as putting down according to density-time curve All density-time curve.Such as, the meansigma methods thus calculated can also be weighted mean.
Perform wherein to check to see whether to already more than the step of predetermined threshold value In, the functional value (it such as includes intensity level) of the density-time curve of expression group now with Threshold value compares.Threshold value if more than, then draw and reached for actual imaging The conclusion of initialization time point.
The method of the imaging for performing area-of-interest according to the present invention uses according to this The initialization time point of the imaging of the bright area-of-interest for automatically determining object to be checked Method.Then, starting imaging at initialization time point, it is with being used for according to the present invention The method of the initialization time point automatically determining the imaging of the area-of-interest of object to be checked is true Determine or after initialization time puts, need the additional waiting time of 5～10s to determine. Therefore, if without waiting for the time after initialization time puts, then initialization time point is also It is considered the sart point in time for imaging.
The imaging treating description region initial for determining object to be checked according to the present invention Change time point initialization time point determine that equipment includes input interface, its for receive about The selection guide of the section of object to be checked or the selection of plane, for wherein observing The bolus subsequently of area-of-interest is flowed to fluid or fluid (such as, there is contrast agent) Tracing figure picture.Further, determine that equipment includes according to the initialization time point of the present invention Actuating unit, it is for activating the image-generating unit multiple groups for the section selected by shooting Note tracing figure picture.Image recording unit can e.g. CT scanner.And, according to this Bright initialization time point determines that equipment also includes initial data acquiring unit, and it is used for obtaining Initial data acquired during the plurality of Bolus chase image.At the beginning of the present invention Beginningization time point determines that equipment also includes reconstruction unit, and it is for based on acquired original number Include distributing to the view data of the intensity level of each picture point according to rebuilding.
Initialization time point according to the present invention determines that equipment also includes analytic unit, and it is used for According to based on distributing to distribute to each picture point determined by the intensity level of each picture point Each picture point is divided in groups by the similarity of density-time curve.Initial according to the present invention Changing time point and determine that equipment also includes that initialization time point determines unit, it is used for determining wherein The intensity level distributing to the one of which in these groups reaches or the most predetermined threshold The time of value.
Imaging armarium (especially, computed tomography systems) according to the present invention The control equipment of equipment is determined including the initialization time point having according to the present invention.
Present invention implementation in CT system this have the advantage that the scanning of CT system is held The continuous time is relatively short.It is different from the situation of the use MRI system imaging that may need a few minutes, This only continues several seconds.When any time postpone can with threat to life time, this is checking emergency treatment In the case of patient, it is particularly advantageous.And, it is more widely used CT system, and Than MRI system more economical efficiently.
The imaging treating description region initial for determining object to be checked according to the present invention The initialization time point changing time point determines that the basic element of character of equipment can for major part Embody with the form with software part.This is particularly to reconstruction unit, analytic unit and just Beginningization time point determines unit.But, in principle, when in view of express calculating, Parts can be partly to realize with the form of the hardware of software support, such as, and FPGA etc.. Similarly, such as, when relating to from other software part transmission data, required interface is also Software interface can be embodied as.But, they can also be embodied as by suitable software The hardware interface activated.
The implementation being substantially based on software this have the advantage that previously used control equipment Can also renovate simply by software upgrading, in order to grasp in the way of according to the present invention Make.Up to the present, this purpose is also by the computer program with computer program Realizing, this computer program has program segment, can be loaded directly into imaging system (excellent Selection of land, computed tomography systems) the storage device controlling equipment in, in order to when When control equipment performs this program, implement the institute of the method according to the invention in steps.Remove Outside computer program, computer program can optionally include the element added, The most such as, document and/or include that hardware component is (the most such as, for using the hard of software Part key (softdog etc.)) at interior additional parts.
It is sent to control equipment and/or storage on the control device or is stored in control equipment and is By computer-readable medium (such as, memory stick, hard disk or on it storage have can be by controlling The program segment of the computer program that the computing unit of control equipment reads in and performs any other Transmissible or permanently mounted data medium) realize.To this end, computing unit is permissible Such as include the microprocessor etc. of one or more interaction.
Dependent claims and description subsequently all comprise particularly advantageous implement Example and development.Here, especially, it is also possible to the appurtenance of another claim categories Require the claim of one claim categories of similar exploitation.And, at the back of the body of the present invention In scape, it is also possible to combine the various features of different exemplary embodiments and claim with shape The exemplary embodiment of Cheng Xin.
According to one embodiment of the method for the invention, the first Bolus chase imaging it Before, give patient contrast.Such as, before the method according to the invention starts, this can To be performed by doctor or syringe.Injection contrast agent makes it possible to the function ginseng of visualizing patient Number or specific anatomical structure.
Preferably, (multiple) density-time curve wherein distributed and reference arterial signal Least one set in these groups that curve is most like is identified as a group with arterial signal. Such as, the specification of the cluster centre modeled makes can be at these with reference to arterial signal curve It is used directly during the picture point imaging of group.But, if these groups are initially by initial group Formed and be suitable to the data obtained in the framework of iterative process in an ad-hoc fashion, then continuing After forming these groups, they are also used as and distribute to the density-time curve of each group Which compare to determine the comparison curves needing group.In other words, iterative procedures search is (also That is, automatically) best solution.
It is particularly preferred that in the case of the method according to the invention, the actual imaging bag of patient Include CT imaging and in this case, intensity level is obtained by reconstruction during being included in imaging The pad value that the initial data taken obtains.
Alternately, the imaging of the method according to the invention is used can also to include MRI imaging.
When clustering method is for being divided into group by picture point, can particularly effectively implement root Method according to the present invention.
Clustering method is wherein to treat that packet parameters is arranged around cluster centre to make to treat packet parameters With the quadratic sum of the distance between cluster centre is minimum method.Gather by so-called K average Class, cluster centre is initialised when starting and is varied so that use during the method Each iterative step calculates new cluster centre as being grouped of being included in corresponding group The meansigma methods of parameter, and subsequently according to the distance between parameter and the new cluster centre calculated Quadratic sum be minimum criterion perform the parameter packet around the cluster centre that newly calculates.
Such a kind of method being suitable for being used together with the method according to the invention is K- Mean cluster.Alternately, it is also possible to use wherein with in the pre-defined cluster of model form The so-called hierarchical cluster of the heart.
In addition, PRESS, WILLIAM H. et al. in 2007 at New York (NY) The 840-898 page of Cambridge University Press the 16th chapter in delivered this kind The clustering method of type " Numerical Recipes:The Art of Scientific Computing, 3rd Edition”。
Imaging at the area-of-interest for automatically determining object to be checked according to the present invention Initialization time point method a modification in, wherein first intensity level exceedes threshold value One group of picture point is identified as the group with arterial signal.First the increase of intensity level is explained For meaning that contrast agent begins through selected section and flows through tremulous pulse.In this case, Advantageously, group can also include multiple tremulous pulsies that contrast agent is at about arrived.
In order to determine initialization time point during suppression interference signal, it is preferable that have with The group of the density-time curve that the heart rate of patient or breathing are correlated with is identified as individually Group.These groups cause due to body kinematics during dividing groups of process for eliminating Predictable periodic disturbances.
In the particularly preferred modification of the method according to the invention, the quantity of group is root in advance Set up according to maximum time needed for determining method.If it is the shortest that this determines that method only needs Time, then the quantity organized is reduced.But, which also reduces and determine what initialization time put Accuracy.
It is further advantageous that be defined as the selected of the region at arterial signal expection place wherein The limited sub-region of interest of the section selected shoots Bolus chase image.In this case, The record time can be reduced, and due to picture point fewer number of in BT image, so respectively The packet of individual picture point occurs more quickly, and can determine with less computation burden Initialization time point.Treating in can scanning referring for example to BT describes the previously compiling of section Summarized images performs the restriction of limited subregion.
If in advance from the model organized for each limit that group switching centre is these groups each The allocated predetermined density-time curve of group as group switching centre, then may also speed up basis The method of the present invention.If distributing to the density-time curve of group switching centre (time wherein, described M-density curve can such as be learnt from empirical value) with distribute to until packet diagram picture point time m- Density curve is the most corresponding, then can dramatically speed up the packet of initialization time point With determine.However, it is necessary to the flexible iteration for group switching centre of time and computing capability adapts to Process is not used together with this modification that saves time.
Alternatively, during being grouped, selected initial group switching centre can be to select randomly The group switching centre selected, it is during the use of clustering method (it is also known as clustering method), May be adapted to distribute to the density-time curve around its picture point being grouped.Group switching centre or poly- The adaptation at class center can also by formed for distribute to group or cluster picture point time m- The meansigma methods of density curve and this meansigma methods is set as that new group switching centre realizes.This makes Division must be organized and can be suitable to each measurement data set neatly.Cluster at this specific type Alternative variant in, predefine initial group switching centre from model and be such as based on empirical value pre- First specify initial value and be suitable to the most iteratively by means of described adaptation Procedure Acquisition Measurement data.
Feelings that are that limit in advance from model with utilizing each group switching centre to be and that be fixing modification Condition is different, in the case of the specification randomly choosed of initial group switching centre, which does not knows in advance One group is assigned to sought arterial signal.By with contrast signal or reference time-close Line of writing music compares, and after the division of group, can such as determine this distribution.
If during being divided into the step of group of picture point, the picture point only considered is Its intensity level intensity with distribution in predetermined value interval (value interval) Those points of value, then simplifying and speeding up further of the method according to the invention can realize. In this case, under CT system help during imaging, it is preferable that value interval Scope from-50HU to 150HU, in order to such as get rid of skeleton and lung tissue.
In order to compensate body kinematics by the method according to the invention, can record bolus continuously The image data set of tracing figure picture record.The school of the view data acquired in registration enables Just can produce the correct space distribution of intensity level acquired during imaging.
In a modification of the method according to the invention, Hierarchical clustering methods or alternately K-means clustering method can serve as clustering method.
Accompanying drawing explanation
Referring to the drawings and exemplary embodiment, again below the present invention is retouched in more detail State.Accompanying drawing illustrates:
Fig. 1 depicts the previous note of the tremulous pulse for identifying and be positioned for Bolus chase scanning The summarized images of record,
What Fig. 2 be a diagram that the first exemplary embodiment according to the present invention feels emerging for performing The flow chart of the method for the CT imaging in interest region,
Fig. 3 be a diagram that the method by the first exemplary embodiment according to the present invention will be from The measured value of BT image is divided into the figure of each group or cluster,
What Fig. 4 be a diagram that the second exemplary embodiment according to the present invention feels emerging for performing The flow chart of the method for the CT imaging in interest region,
Fig. 5 is that the initialization time point of the exemplary embodiment according to the present invention determines equipment Schematically show,
Fig. 6 is the computed tomography systems of the exemplary embodiment according to the present invention.
Detailed description of the invention
Fig. 1 depicts head and neck area 100, its during monitoring process in advance in reality It is conventionally produced before CT imaging and before BT scans to allow to limit subvolume of interest Region B-ROI, wherein, BT to be performed scanning is used for determining fluid or contrast concentration. This description can observe fluid or contrast agent during the process of the method wherein with expection Plane BT-S flowing to area-of-interest is corresponding.In the case of fig. 1, sought Artery A RT be little to the identified correct region B-ROI to be used in BT be difficult to only Position by conventional method.
When Fig. 2 illustrates the initialization for automatically determining the CT image CT-S in flow chart Between the exemplary embodiment of method 200 of point.In step 2.I, initially, to hold wherein Plane BT-S is determined with the help of the topogram of row BT scanning BT.To the greatest extent Pipe CT image is divided into multiple section in a z-direction, but in the case of BT image, Generally, cut into slices or wherein it is observed that contrast agent flows to including of area-of-interest for one Plane wherein is sufficient to.This makes to be exposed to radiation during BT scans and can limit to In selected section.
Continue determining after the suitably section BT-S of BT image BT, in step 2.II Middle execution the oneth BT scans BT1(xi, t1).For this image, shift to an earlier date (i.e., Before method 200 starts) give patient contrast to be checked.BT is scanned at a BT1 (xi, t1) period, at very first time t1Picture point x of the section BT-S selected by executioni Imaging, obtain the pad value μ in selected slice in this exemplary embodiment with this imaging (xi, t1)。
In step 2.III, at time t2(there is the initial value 1 for running variable n, During the first pass of step 2.III, BT scans BTn+1Variable index n+1 there is certain index Value 2) scan BT from selected slice BT-S record the 2nd BT2(xi, t2).In method 200 In the case of, as each picture point x for the BT-S that cuts into slicesiDensity-time curve The function of process, needs at least one second image record, in order to subsequently by each picture point xiDivide in groups.During being divided into each group, it is not the pad value μ mainly considered Abswolute level, but this value changes Δ μ as the function of time t.In this case, If the density of refer to, then suppose density and measured pad value μ (xi, t1) relevant, It generally represents with Hounsfield unit HU.Generally with the time interval of 1 second to 2 second Obtain each BT scanning.
In step 2.IV, perform image relative to the response of same or similar Time Density Point xiPacket.That is, evaluate until the BT acquired in this time scans BTnAnd therefrom Draw about picture point xiThe conclusion being associated with each function group.This program is based on such The fact is, in the district that fluid (such as, contrast agent or the fluid that comprises contrast agent) is reached In territory, pad value rises.And, wherein pad value rises to time or the time of specified point Sequence can be used to draw about this need of tremulous pulse or the conclusion of vein.Based on what is called Cluster perform to divide CLT-G in groupsk.During clustering, picture point xiIt is grouped, its In, use similar process for the time response of the curve of pad value.This packet is at least Need twice BT scanning.In the case of this first exemplary embodiment, for dividing group Standard is not fixing, but based on acquired measured value (it is to say, with self-organizing Mode) produce.It means that such as, it is intended that for initial value and this group of group switching centre Center is suitable to the new measurement data obtained during the method.
In step 2.V, subsequently, its allocated picture point or the time response of pad value Corresponding group CLT-G is responded with the tremulous pulse being exposed to fluid (such as, contrast agent)K, SGArt Selected from group CLT-Gk.Such as, for pad value μ (xi, tn) curve or time m-density Dramatically increasing suddenly of curve is interpreted signal tremulous pulse SGArt.Due to the pad value in vein Increase usual much weaker and therefore can distinguishing with dramatically increasing of tremulous pulse, so aobvious Write increase to can serve as distinguishing criterion.It addition, the increase in vein starts later, so that former Then go up the signal of always the first one contrast agent flow of tremulous pulse and only vein is the most so Do.If there is no picture point group CLT-G in step 2.VkThe signal of display mark tremulous pulse SGArt, identified by " n " of Fig. 2 in this step, then run variable n and be incremented by 1, return subsequently Return to step 2.III.In step 2.III, continue new BT and scan BTn+1(xi, tn+1), In this case, the value running index n is 2.Subsequently, in step 2.IV, based on Previous BT scanning performs the new packet of picture point.Subsequently, in step 2.V, perform into One step inspection is to check the signal SG of mark tremulous pulseArtWhether find limited group CLT-Gk In group CLT-GK, SGArt.If this is the case (such as identified by " y " of Fig. 2), Then in step 2.VII, check this group CLT-GK, SGArtThis group CLT-G is distributed to checkK, SGArtPad value μ whether exceed predetermined threshold value SW.In this case, decay Value μ can e.g. be assigned to selected group CLT-GK, SGArtPicture point current Meansigma methods or for selected group CLT-GK, SGArtOne of them of picture point The single maximum measured in one of them of the BT scanning of point.If in step 2.VII Determine that not less than this threshold value SW, then the value running variable n is incremented by 1 in step 2.VIII, It is subsequently returned to step 2.III, wherein, performs new BT and scan BTn+1(n=3).Subsequently, Repeat step 2.IV to step 2.VII.If determining in step 2.VII and exceeding now threshold value SW, then this is to be interpreted as contrast agent and has arrived at region of interest ROI and in step 2.IX starts the mark (sign) of actual imaging CT-S.
Fig. 3 shows the Figure 30 0 being divided into three parts Figure 30 1,302,303.First Or upper part Figure 30 1 shows and distributes to each group CLT1..., CLT5Time m-close Write music line ZDK1..., ZDK5.Density-time curve is approximately corresponding to wherein three BT The stage of the method 200 that scanning has performed after about 5s.As with reference to Part I figure 301 can identify, for first group of CLT1Density-time curve mark sensing distribute to The picture point of this group is allocated to dramatically increasing of the conclusion of the picture point of tremulous pulse.Therefore, with Step 2.V of method 200 is corresponding, it can be deduced that such conclusion, first group of CLT1It is The group to select in this stage.And, distribute to first group of CLT1Density-time curve ZDK1Exceeding typical threshold value 200HU, it alreadys more than threshold value corresponding to wherein detecting Step 2.VII of method 200.Distribute to each group of CLT1..., CLT5Time m-density Curve can e.g. averaged curve, it is by being averagely allocated to each group of CLTiEach image Point xiDensity-time curve determine.
Part II Figure 30 2 depicts the section of the head shown in Fig. 1 and neck area again View.Sub-region of interest B-ROI of slice view indicates boundary line.Owing to expecting that it rings The initialization time point for CT imaging should will be determined for the method according to the invention 200 Tremulous pulse is positioned at there, so selecting this region in advance.Be positioned in Part II Figure 30 2 is white Color arrow instruction group CLT of mark in step 2.V of method1The position that is positioned at of picture point Put.This position also comprises one of them of the tremulous pulse of the patient checked that contrast agent flows through.
However, it is advantageous that according to the present invention, scan and true owing to implementing BT by section Surely exceed threshold value and determine that artery position is unrelated, so actually need not determine the essence of tremulous pulse Really position.For example, it is also possible to be this situation, the picture point from multiple tremulous pulsies is allocated Give group CLT1, but it is not necessary to analyze which picture point by the method according to the invention distribute to Which tremulous pulse.In the case of the example shown in Fig. 3, a special feature is so The fact, in the case of this patient, in two (left and right) carotid artery, only one of which is Patent.By means of conventional method, unfortunately and by mistake, can inaccessible in mistake Tremulous pulse sets and treats description region ROI, therefore start letter from be not obtained for starting imaging Number or initial signal.
Part III Figure 30 3 different GTGs of confined area B-ROI show zones of different, Wherein, as can from Part III Figure 30 3 the scale identification on right side, different GTG It is assigned to different groups, also referred to as clusters CL.By the white in Part III Figure 30 3 The position of arrow instruction is the CLT of mark in step 2.V of method1The picture point place of group Position.This position also comprises contrast agent and flows through its of tremulous pulse of the patient under its check In one.
When Fig. 4 illustrates the initialization for automatically determining the CT image CT-S in flow chart Between second exemplary embodiment of method 400 of point.In step 4.I, initially, it is determined In BT to be performed scanning BT section BT-S.As already mentioned, CT image is in z side Upwards it is divided into multiple section.BT is scanned, selects wherein it is observed that make now Shadow agent flows to section or plane BT-S of area-of-interest.This makes at BT interradius sweep time Penetrate exposure and can be confined to selected section.It addition, in the case of method 400, Step 4.II additionally performs so-called monitor PM in advance.To this end, with relatively low resolution The summarized images of shooting selected slice BT-S.PM scanning (is the most also appointed as BT0 (xi, t0) therefore identical with BT scanning, difference is, due to the time early, so Use to monitor in advance and the most do not describe contrast agent.Scan in order to ensure at PM Eye impression identical with the eye impression that BT scans, in principle, identical sweep parameter is used In two kinds of imaging.
Summarized images be used for draw the conclusion about the coarse-texture in selected section and with After limit in step 4.III and wherein expect the confined area B-ROI of arterial signal.So, Can method 400 further during limit with BT scanning obtain picture point xiNumber Mesh.This makes it possible to accelerated method 400 and in the decay acquired in grouping process and evaluation Computing capability can be saved during value.
Continue and determine suitably cutting into slices BT-S and determining confined area for BT scanning BT After B-ROI, step 4.IV performs a BT and scans BT1(xi, t1).To this end, Before method 400 starts, such as, give patient contrast to be checked.In step 4.IV, In this exemplary embodiment will be at the confined area B-ROI selected by selected slice BT-S Obtain pad value μ (xi, t1) very first time t1Perform imaging.
In step 4.V, in the time of the confined area B-ROI of selected section BT-S t2(there is the initial value 1 for running variable n, during the first pass of step 4.V, BT Scanning BTn+1Variable index n+1 there is certain index value 2) record the 2nd BT scan BT2 (xi, t2).Use the method, as the confined area B-ROI of selected section BT-S Each picture point xiDensity-time curve ZDKiThe function of process, need at least one Individual second imaging, in order to after a while by each picture point xiDivide in groups.It is being divided into each group Period, the first example does not accounts for the abswolute level of pad value, but considers conduct The value of the function of time t changes Δ μ.If this situation relates to density, then suppose density with Measured pad value μ (xi, tn) relevant, it is generally with Hounsfield unit HU table Show.Generally obtain each BT scanning with the time interval of 1 second to 2 second.
In step 4.VI, the so-called baseline correction of the density-time curve acquired in execution BK.Baseline should be understood that the feelings that there is not contrast agent in selected section BT-S Each picture point x measured under conditioniPad value.These baseline values are during scanning at BT Measured pad value deducts, in order to the most standardized pad value is due to radiography Agent and only reflect the dynamic response in selected region B-ROI.
Now, in step 4.VII, different from the situation of method 200, according to the present invention's First exemplary embodiment, according to picture point x acquired during scanning at BTiOr with its phase Intensity level μ (the x of associationi, tn) distribute to each group CLT-GkSpecify special time-close Write music line model.Even if " atypical " density-time curve is had by such specification It is likely to be due to the measured value of BT scanning and the slightly lower motility that causes and adaptability, also can add It is grouped and simplifies the determination of initialization time point soon.The shape of model curve may refer to several n Function, i.e. model curve is gradually increased (they become longer) along with the number of BT image And change, therefore acquired density-time curve can be with the model curve of corresponding change Join.
In step 4.VIII, relative to time same or similar, m-density response performs figure Picture point xiPacket.That is, evaluate until the acquired BT of this time acquisition scans BTn, And draw from which about picture point xiThe conclusion being associated with each function group.This mistake Journey is based on the fact that, in the region that contrast agent is arrived, pad value rise or under Fall.And, wherein pad value is raised or lowered to time of specified point or time series is permissible It is used for determining that this needs tremulous pulse or vein.In the situation carrying out CT scan with Iodine contrast medium Under, these values raise.But, in the case of MRI obtains, it is also possible to be MRI signal This situation declined due to contrast agent.
Perform to divide CLT-G in groups based on so-called clusterk.During clustering, picture point xiBeing grouped, along with this packet, corresponding with the density-time curve of contrast agent being used for declines Need the time response of the curve of depreciation to be similar in step 4.VII in this exemplary embodiment The process of the middle model curve specified.
These model curves can e.g. have the curve of arterial signal, have veneous signal Curve and there is no the curve of any contrast agent signals.Due to group in this exemplary embodiment Characteristic or group switching centre M-CLT are fixing, so in this case, due to based on model The most already known group being somebody's turn to do " correctly ", so eliminating group CLT-G determining " correctly "K, SGArt(that is, with arterial signal SGArtThe group being associated) step (in fig. 2, step 2.VI).
In step 4.IX, check this group CLT-GK, SGArtThis group is distributed to check CLT-GK, SGArtPad value μ whether exceed predetermined threshold value SW.In this situation Under, pad value μ can e.g. distribute to selected group CLT-GK, SGArtCurrent flat Average, or for selected group CLT-GK, SGArtPicture point in an image The single maximum measured in one of them of the BT scanning of point.If in step 4.IX Determine and be not above threshold value SW, then run variable n in step 4.X, be incremented by 1, return subsequently Return to wherein obtain new BT and scan BTn+1Step 4.V of (wherein n=2).Subsequently, repeat Step 4.VI to 4.IX.If determining in step 4.IX and exceeding now threshold value SW, then this Being to be interpreted as being administered to the contrast agent of patient before start method 400, to have arrived at sense emerging The mark of interest region ROI, and in step 4.XI, start actual imaging CT-S.
Fig. 5 illustrates and includes the initialization time point of the exemplary embodiment according to the present invention really The control equipment 50 of the CT system of locking equipment 59 (by dotted line).This control equipment 50 Including control unit 58, it sends control command and also processes from its of control equipment 50 The feedback message of its unit and the input from peripheral cell PE.Control unit 58 such as warp Determined that the input interface ESC of equipment 59 determines to initialization time point by initialization time point to set The control unit 51 of standby 59 sends order, with in the acquisition control signal performing imaging with it CT system (seeing Fig. 6) is activated with the help of AS.Imaging can also e.g. interior storage The summarized images of information position graphic form with determine wait select section or plane BT-S for Bolus chase image subsequently.And, imaging can also is that and combines Fig. 2 and Fig. 4 and solved The imaging relevant for Bolus chase scanning BT released.Imaging still can be the region of interest of patient Actual imaging CT-S being associated with contrast agent of territory ROI.And, control equipment 50 also Including the view data the most such as stored for central control unit 58, protocol data or The memory element 57 of routine data.
Layout 50 shown in Fig. 5 also includes initial data acquiring unit 52, and it is for obtaining The initial data RD obtained during above-mentioned image record；With reconstruction unit 53, it is used for base Reconstructed image data BD is carried out in the initial data RD obtained by initial data acquiring unit 52. Such as, above-mentioned BT image BTnIt is used for determining each figure compiling view data BD from which Picture point xiPad value μ.
And, initialization time point determines that equipment 59 includes analytic unit 54, and it is used for basis Distribute to each picture point xiIntensity level μ (xi, similar time response t) is by each figure Picture point xiDivide CLT-G in groupsk.As combined the institute of the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 2 and Fig. 4 Explain, can determine during the learning types with self-organizing form or true from model Surely each group of each group or group switching centre or the intensity level μ (x of group switching centre are distributed toi, t) time Between respond.And, initialization time point determines that equipment 59 optionally includes identifying unit 55. This mark unit 55 is used for distribution as group CLT-G with arterial signalK, ArtGroup CLT-GkOne of them be designated and determine for distributing to CLT-GkPicture point xiStrong Angle value μ (xi, the function of time response t).If each group switching centre be not fixing but Adjusted the most iteratively during using cluster, then this mark unit 55 is necessary.Another Aspect, if fixing each group in advance therefore also have CLT-GK, SGArtOr it has arterial signal The characteristic of group switching centre, then can also omit mark unit 55.Have if can't identify Group CLT-G of arterial signalK, SGArt, then mark unit 55 commanding actuator unit 51 shoots attached The BT image BTn+1 added.
The mark that continues has group CLT-G of arterial signalK, SGArtAfterwards, this information and distribute to tool There is group CLT-G of arterial signalK, SGArtIntensity data μ SGArt(xi, at the beginning of t) being sent to Beginningization time point determines unit 56, and it is configured to determine time tCT, at this time tCT, Distribute to group CLT-G with arterial signalK, SGArtIntensity level μ SGArt(xi, t) exceed Predetermined threshold value SW.Initialization time point determines that unit 56 is further configured to for it Middle determine what the situation commanding actuator unit 51 not having threshold value SW to be exceeded should perform to add BT image BTn+1.Continue and determine that initialization time puts tCTAfterwards, initialization time point determines list Unit 56 transmits initialization time point t to central control unit 58CT, this central control unit exists With the help of the corresponding instruction CT-S of actuating unit 51 determined by initialization time Point tCTStart actual CT image CT-S.View data BD from actual imaging CT-S It is stored in memory cell 57.
Fig. 6 shows the computed tomography systems of the exemplary embodiment according to the present invention 1, when it also includes corresponding with the equipment in Fig. 5 initialization according to exemplary embodiment Between point determine equipment 59.Here, CT system 1 consists essentially of conventional scanner 10, its In, stand 11 has detector 16 and the x-ray source positioned opposite with this detector The data for projection acquiring unit 5 of 15 rotates around measuring chamber 12.Have in scanner 10 front Patient support apparatus 3 or patient table 3, patient P is positioned at top 2 thereon can be towards scanning Instrument 10 promotes, in order to make patient P be moved through measuring chamber 12 relative to detector system 16. Scanner 10 and patient table 3 are activated by controlling equipment 50 (referring further to Fig. 5), and it is via often Rule control interface 51 and send acquisition control signal AS so that in a usual manner according to preassigning Measurement agreement activate whole system.In the case of spiral (spiral) obtains, patient P Along corresponding for the system axle z z direction run by measuring chamber 12 with lengthwise move and During measuring, x-ray source 15 produces spiral path relative to rotating while patient P.With Time, detector 16 is always parallel to x-ray source 15 and rotates, in order to obtains and is subsequently used for weight Build the projection measurements RD of volume and/or slice image data.Similarly, it is also possible to hold Row proceeding measurement method, such as, is used for recording each section, as used according to the present invention Method 200, BT in 400 scans BTnSituation the same, use the method, close Fixed position on z direction, then in circulation (cycle), part circulation or multiple circulation phase Between, the projection measurements RD needed for obtaining at relevant z location, in order at this z location Rebuild profile or with from data for projection reconstructed image data BD of multiple z location.According to this The method 200,400 of invention can also be used together with other CT system in principle, such as, There is multiple x-ray source and/or detector and/or there is the detection of formation unbroken loop (ring) Device.
The projection measurements RD obtained by detector 16 (is also known as initial data below RD) it is sent to control via raw data interfaces 52 (being also known as initial data acquiring unit) Control equipment 50.This initial data RD is optionally following suitable pretreatment (such as, filter Ripple and/or beam hardening correction), process further in image reconstruction unit in addition and (see Fig. 5), in this exemplary embodiment, this image reconstruction unit is on a processor with software shape Formula realizes in controlling equipment 50.This image reconstruction device uses initial data RD to come at weight Reconstructed image data BD with the help of construction method.Suitably method for reconstructing can be such as based on filter The method for reconstructing of the back projection of ripple.
Working as rebuild view data from summarized images or particularly from BT scanning In the case of during view data, as explained in detail about Fig. 5, subsequently in initialization time Point processes this view data with the help of determining equipment 59 in control equipment 50 further BD, and determine that initialization time puts tCT.Subsequently, control equipment 50 uses obtaining of correspondence Take control signal AS determined by initialization time point tCTStart actual imaging CT-S.
Acquired view data BD be archived in the memorizer 57 of control equipment 50 and/or The screen of control equipment 50 exports in a usual manner.Can also be via showing the most in figure 6 The interface gone out is fed to be connected to computed tomography imaging system 1 (such as, radiology information system (RIS) in network), and be stored in the mass storage that can therefrom access or Export as image on printer that person connects there or shooting platform.Therefore, it can basis Need to process further data, then store or export.
It addition, Fig. 6 also show contrast media injection device 61, use this contrast media injection device 61, patient P can inject contrast agent, the behavior (example of this contrast agent before starting to check As, in container or vascular system) can computed tomography systems 1 help under with Graphics mode obtains.
Finally, referring again to following facts, use said method 200,400, described Initialization time point determines that equipment 59 and described computed tomograph scanner system 1 are only these The preferred illustrative embodiment of invention, and basis disclosed in without departing from such as claim In the case of the scope of invention, the present invention can be changed by those skilled in the art.Such as, The imaging system used can also is that magnetic resonance imaging system.For sake of completeness, Referring also to following facts: use the "a" or "an" of indefinite article to be not precluded from discussed spy Levy and can also there is multiple probabilities.Similarly, term " unit " is not precluded from this unit Probability including the multiple parts that can also be spatially distributed.

Claims (16)

1. the one-tenth being used for automatically determining the area-of-interest (ROI) of object to be checked (P) Initialization time point (t as (CT-S)CT) method (200,400), including following Step:
-select the plane (BT-S) of described object to be checked (P) for Bolus chase subsequently Image (BTn), wherein, it is possible to observe the stream flowing to described area-of-interest (ROI) Body,
Multiple Bolus chase image (BT of the section (BT-S) selected by-shootingn),
-based on the plurality of Bolus chase image distributed in selected section (BT-S) (BTnEach picture point (x obtained during)i) intensity level (μ (xi, tn)) come really Fix time-density curve (ZDKi),
-according to distributing to described each picture point (xi) described density-time curve (ZDKi) Similarity by described each picture point (xi) divide (CLT-G in groupsk),
-determine and distribute to described group of (CLT-GkIntensity level (μ (the x of one of them group in)i, tn)) reach time of predetermined threshold value (SW).
Method the most according to claim 1 (200,400), wherein, described to be checked Object (P) had been given contrast agent, and/or institute before described first Bolus chase image State group (CLT-GkDensity-time curve (the ZDK distributed in)i) believe with reference to tremulous pulse Number curve (SGArt) at least one most like group is identified as the group with arterial signal (CLT-GK, SGArt)。
Method the most according to claim 1 and 2 (200,400), wherein, described one-tenth As including CT imaging and described intensity level (μ (xi, tn)) include pad value.
4. according to the method (200,400) described in any one in claim 1-3, wherein, Described imaging includes MRI imaging.
5. according to the method (200,400) described in any one in claim 1-4, wherein, Perform described picture point (x with the help of clustering method (CLT)i) divide in groups (CLT-Gk)。
6. according to the method (200,400) described in any one in claim 1-5, wherein, Described intensity level (μ (xi, tn)) first exceed the picture point (x of threshold value (SW)i) Group (CLT-Gk) it is identified as the group (CLT-G with arterial signalK, SGArt)。
7. according to the method (200,400) described in any one in claim 1-6, wherein, When the having m-density relevant to the heart rate of described object to be checked (P) or breathing is bent Line (ZDKi) group (CLT-Gk) it is identified as single group.
8. according to the method (200,400) described in any one in claim 1-7, wherein, Group (CLT-Gk) quantity be defined in advance be determined method (200,400) by described The function of the maximum time needed, and/or by the limited portion in selected plane (BT-S) Divide and area-of-interest (B-ROI) shoots described Bolus chase image (BTn), described it is subject to Limit part area-of-interest is defined as arterial signal (SGArt) expection place region, and/ Or group switching centre (M-CLT) is according to for described group of (CLT-Gk) model limited in advance For: predetermined density-time curve (ZDKi) it is assigned to described group of (CLT-Gk) Each group as group switching centre, and/or the group switching centre randomly choosed is selected as initial group switching centre, Described initial group switching centre is described in be applied to described clustering method to distribute to be grouped around it Picture point (xi) density-time curve (ZDKiIt is adjusted during).
9. according to the method (200,400) described in any one in claim 1-8, wherein, By described picture point (xi) divide (CLT-G in groupsk) step during, only consider Predetermined value interval (WI) has distributed intensity level (μ (xi, tn)) image Point (xi)。
Method the most according to claim 9 (200,400), wherein, described value district Between the scope of (WI) be to 150HU from-50HU, and/or at described Bolus chase image (BTnIn), the described image (BD) of record is sequentially registered.
11. according to the method (200,400) described in any one in claim 1-10, its In, Hierarchical clustering methods or K means clustering method are used as described clustering method (CLT).
12. 1 kinds of methods (200,400) being used for implementing the imaging of area-of-interest (ROI), Comprise the following steps:
-perform according to the method (200,400) according to any one of claim 1-11,
-according to determined by the present invention according to any one of claim 1-11 described initially Change time point (tCT) place starts imaging (CT-S).
13. 1 kinds of initialization time points determine equipment (59), are used for determining object to be checked (P) The initialization time point (t of the imaging (CT-S) treating description region (ROI)CT), bag Include:
-input interface (ESC), for receiving putting down relative to described object to be checked (P) The guide that selects of the selection in face (BT-S) is used for Bolus chase image (BT) subsequently, its In, it is possible to observe the fluid flowing to described area-of-interest (ROI),
-actuating unit (51), is used for activating image-generating unit (10) selected for shooting Multiple Bolus chase image (BT of section (BT-S)n),
-initial data acquiring unit (52), is used for obtaining with the plurality of Bolus chase image (BTn) initial data (RD) that obtains,
-reconstruction unit (53), for rebuilding bag based on acquired initial data (RD) Include and distribute to each picture point (xi) intensity level (μ (xi, tn)) view data (BD),
-analytic unit (54), for according to based on distributing to described each picture point (xi) Intensity level (μ (the x distributedi, tn)) determined by distribute to described each picture point (xi) Density-time curve (ZDKi) similarity, by described each picture point (xi) divide For group (CLT-Gk),
-initialization time point determines unit (56), is used for determining and distributes to described group of (CLT-Gk) One of them group intensity level (μ (xi, tn)) reach predetermined threshold value (SW) Time.
14. 1 kinds of imaging armarium, particularly computed tomography systems (1), including Control equipment (50), described control equipment has initialization according to claim 13 Time point determines equipment (59).
15. 1 kinds of computer programs with computer program, described computer program energy Enough it is loaded directly in the storage device of control equipment (50) of the medicinal equipment of imaging, described The medicinal equipment of imaging is preferably computed tomography systems (1), and described computer program has There is program segment with when performing institute in the described control equipment of described computed tomography imaging system When stating computer program, perform the institute according to the method according to any one of claim 1-12 In steps.
16. 1 kinds of computer-readable mediums, on it storage have computing unit readable and can perform Program segment so that when described program segment is performed by described computing unit, perform according to right The institute of the method described in any one in requirement 1-12 is in steps.
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